Initially there is an online process to go through- if you've applied to JL/Waitrose jobs before and got through the first stage of the online application, in most cases you will skip straight onto the second stage of the online application, which is the psychometric test, without having to wait. The psychometric test is just 20 or so questions explaining different situations and you just have to chose what you would do in each situation- fairly easy as most of it is just common sense. They send you an email saying they are considering your application and reply within 2 weeks stating whether or not you have got through or not (be sure to check your junk mail). Should you be lucky enough to get past this stage (it was my 6th application before I did), you will be invited to an assessment centre, in most cases in the actual store you will be working in. The total interview is 3 hours which consists of an introduction, a "getting to know the people on your table" section (basically just sell yourself and your qualities), a strategic team "game" where you have to copy and build a pre-built lego house like-for-like, a improv section where you and an assessor go out onto the shop floor and you act as an employee and the assessor a customer (just be confident and remember to ask key questions such as what is your budget and did you have anything specific in mind) and lastly a 1-to-1 with an assessor where you are asked what hours you would like to work and a few motivational questions, such as what would you bring to John Lewis or tell me about a time where you showed great leadership skills. After this you'll get a call back in about a week and a half saying if you have the job (not too sure about if they call or email you if you don't get it). Then you do an online medical questionnaire and once you get the all clear, they send you a Welcome to the Partnership pack with contract hours and information to read before your first day. My top tip for the assessment centre is this: be confident, smile, keep everyone engaged BUT do not be too loud and talk over people, listen and show respect for everyone else around you- on my table there were 6 loud, strong females (me being one of them) yet I was able to get my views across without seeming too controlling or disrespectful; I don't think anyone else got the job.

QPretty simple, know your products, current trends etc. include others in group assessment as collaboration is important. Why John Lewis and how would you add value? How would you handle a disgruntled customer?